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The proliferation of drug cartels in Mexico is rooted in a complex interplay of socio-economic, political, and geographical factors. High levels of poverty, limited economic opportunities, and widespread corruption have created fertile ground for organized crime. The demand for illegal drugs in the United States has provided a lucrative market, driving the growth and sophistication of Mexican cartels.
The consequences of cartel activity are devastating. These criminal organizations engage in brutal violence, including murders, kidnappings, and extortion. The pervasive fear and instability undermine public trust in government institutions and law enforcement. Additionally, the drug trade fuels addiction and related health crises, both within Mexico and in consumer countries.
The Changing Landscape of Mexican Cartels
Over the decades, the landscape of Mexican cartels has undergone significant transformations. Initially, the drug trade was dominated by a few large, well-organized cartels. However, crackdowns by Mexican and U.S. authorities, internal power struggles, and shifting alliances have fragmented these organizations, leading to the emergence of new groups. The landscape of the territories under the control of the Mexican cartels is very volatile.
The map below shows change in Mexico Drug Cartel territories between 2010 and 2017 according to BBC.
Modern Cartel Landscape
Today, the cartel landscape in Mexico is characterized by a mix of longstanding organizations and newer, more aggressive groups. The map below created by Bismarck Brief shows cartel activity in Mexico in 2024.
The following are some of the most prominent cartels currently operating in Mexico:
Sinaloa Cartel
The Sinaloa Cartel, one of the oldest and most powerful cartels, continues to play a dominant role in the drug trade. Known for its extensive network and innovative trafficking methods, it has managed to maintain significant control over key smuggling routes.
Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG)
Emerging in the early 2010s, the CJNG is one of the fastest-growing and most violent cartels in Mexico. It has expanded rapidly, challenging established groups like the Sinaloa Cartel and seeking to dominate new territories. The CJNG is notorious for its brutal tactics and high-profile attacks.
Gulf Cartel
Once a major player, the Gulf Cartel has seen its influence wane due to internal conflicts and competition from rival groups. Despite this, it remains active, particularly in northeastern Mexico, and continues to be involved in drug trafficking and other criminal activities.
Northeast Cartel
The Northeast Cartel, an offshoot of the Zetas, operates primarily in the northeastern regions of Mexico. Known for its extreme violence, this group engages in a wide range of criminal activities, including drug trafficking, human smuggling, and extortion.
La Familia Michoacana
Originally formed in the early 2000s, La Familia Michoacana gained notoriety for its pseudo-religious ideology and community-oriented rhetoric. Despite government crackdowns, remnants of the group persist, involved in drug production and trafficking, particularly in the state of Michoacán.
Juarez Cartel/La Linea
The Juarez Cartel, once one of the most powerful cartels, has experienced significant setbacks due to internal strife and competition with the Sinaloa Cartel. Its armed wing, La Linea, continues to operate in the border city of Ciudad Juarez, engaging in various criminal enterprises.
If you want to know more about Mexico’s drug traffickers, these books available on Amazon will interest you.
